Different Types Of Phenomena In Gemstones

Discover the magic of rare gemstones with special tricks of light! These gems are like hidden treasures, not common at all. Phenomena is all about how light plays with the gem’s structure and creates stunning effects. Picture colours changing as you move the gem around. This happens because of things like scattering, bending, and more. There are many ways light dances with gems. Some are easy to see, like a gentle sparkle, while others are super rare and catch your eye right away. So, if you’re looking to own a gem that’s not just beautiful but also holds a captivating show of light, keep an eye out for these extraordinary phenomena! Let’s explore various enchanting phenomena that gems can hold.

1. Play of Colour

Opals hold a colourful secret. Fire opals from Australia reveal shifting patches of light against black, creating a captivating play of colours. It’s like capturing rainbows in a gem, bringing joy and wonder.

2. Chatoyancy

This cat-like effect shines in the cat’s eye gems. A streak on the gem’s surface appears to open and close, creating a magical dance under light. Imagine a cat’s wink guiding you through life’s mysteries.

3. Adularescence

Gems like moonstones and feldspars possess this special trait. It can be white or coloured, often a calming blue. Sometimes, it appears as a gentle sheen when you look at it from certain angles. This captivating light dance happens because of how light plays around inside the gem.

4. Asterism

Imagine gazing at a gem and seeing a star-like pattern shimmering on its surface. This starry effect is caused by tiny, needle-shaped things inside the gem. They reflect light especially, creating beautiful patterns. These stars can have four, six, or even twelve rays, each symbolizing a different kind of energy.

5. Iridescence

Think of pigeon necks, butterfly wings, or pearls shimmering with changing colours. This magic, called iridescence, happens when light bounces off surfaces, making rainbows dance before your eyes.

6. Colour Change

Alexandrite, a gem with dual personalities, switches colour under different lights. It’s green in daylight, red under incandescent light. Gems like sapphires and tourmalines can also reveal surprising colour shifts.

7. Labradorescence

Labradorite gems hold a secret. Labradorescence, a dazzling iridescence, arises due to crystal patterns. It’s like a magical light show, inviting you to explore its hidden phenomenon of gemstones.

8. Pleochroism

Pleochroism makes gems show different colours when you look from different angles. It’s because of how light is absorbed in some crystals. Not all gems can do this; only those with two or three colours. Cutting can make it better or lesser. Popular ones are andalusite, iolite, kyanite, kunzite, sphene, and tanzanite.

9. Tenebrescence

Tenebrescence is a super rare phenomenon of gemstones. Some gems change colour in sunlight and go back when it’s dark again. We call it ‘reversible photochromism.’ This magic can happen again and again, always amazing for those who see it.